Airdrie's Economic Development Team recognized with Award of Excellence

From left, Audra Krueger, executive director of Co-operatives First (award sponsor), Chris King, President of EDA, Sara Chamberlain, Tara Levick, Adena Malyk. and Kent Rupert of the City of Airdrie Economic Development team are presented with an Award of Excellence. - Submittedjpg, AI

The City of Airdrie’s Economic Development team is celebrating years of hard work after being recognized for their efforts on the 2018 – 2028 strategy.

During the Economic Developers Alberta Awards ceremony held in Banff from April 3 to 5, the team was presented with an Award of Excellence in the Community Economic Development category.

“The strategy, which was a truly collaborative effort, is designed to cultivate a sustainable economic future by embracing what we heard makes Airdrie great, while building on the potential we have to create a better future,” said Sara Chamberlain, project manager and economic development officer.

“We are very proud to be recognized for the work we’re doing to improve our community.”

The 10-year Economic Strategy was officially endorsed by City Council on May 22, 2018 and then launched during National Small Business Week in October.

The strategy came together in the culmination of two years of extensive community engagement and consultation with businesses and residents.

The theme is “Tapping into Airdrie’s Potential”, and it outlines three key objectives which build on the city’s strengths, address challenges, and seize opportunities for growth.

The objectives, “The Place to Be, Right for Business, and A Connected Community”, each focus on different priorities such as revitalizing downtown, improving the transportation network, growing the visitor economy, and improving access to technology.

Several projects are already underway for the 2018-2028 Economic Development Plan to build a sustainable future for Airdrie, including revitalizing downtown to attract more new businesses and visitors.

The Downtown Plan is currently in the public engagement stage of development, with a series of open houses hosted over the last few months.

To learn more about Airdrie’s Economic Strategy, visit www.airdrie.ca/economicstrategy.